Banana nut bread is a sweet, moist, quick bread made with mashed bananas and chopped nuts, usually walnuts or pecans. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the nuts add a satisfying crunch. This recipe is often baked in a loaf pan and can be served as a breakfast, dessert, or snack.

Making banana nut bread evokes fond memories of cosy mornings in my kitchen. I remember the first time I baked it—my kitchen smelled amazing as the bread baked in the oven. The combination of bananas and nuts made it the perfect comfort food for family gatherings. It has since become one of my go-to recipes for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday or just a regular weekend.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Nut Bread Recipe

This banana nut bread recipe is perfect for any occasion. It blends sweet bananas and crunchy nuts into a moist, flavorful loaf that everyone will enjoy. You’ll love how easy it is to make!

The rich flavour of ripe bananas, combined with the added texture of walnuts, makes each bite irresistible. This recipe keeps the bread soft and tender, ensuring a satisfying treat every time.

With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this banana nut bread is ideal for beginners or busy bakers. The easy-to-follow steps make it a go-to recipe for any skill level.

This recipe offers a delightful balance of sweetness and nutty goodness. Whether for breakfast or dessert, this banana nut bread will quickly become a family favorite!

Pre-preparation of Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Lastly, grease your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking. This way, you won’t end up with a sticky situation when trying to remove the banana bread.

Before we begin the actual baking, there are a few steps to take in preparation. First, make sure you have ripe bananas. The riper, the better – they should be brown or spotty, as they’re sweeter and more manageable to mash.

Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bread starts baking immediately once it’s in the pan, which helps with even cooking.

How to Make Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to create your banana nut bread:

• 3 ripe bananas
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

Now that everything is in place, let’s start baking! Follow these easy steps for a perfectly baked banana nut bread.

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it heat up while you prepare the dough.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth. Add the sugar and softened butter, mixing until well combined. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
5. Pour the batter into the loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
7. Cool Down: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition and Health Benefits of Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Nutrition Benefits:

• Rich in Potassium: Bananas are a great source of potassium, which supports heart health and helps control blood pressure.
• Good Source of Fibre: The whole wheat flour and bananas in banana nut bread provide a good source of dietary fibre, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
• Healthy Fats: Nuts like walnuts and almonds offer heart-healthy fats, which help lower bad cholesterol levels.
• High in Antioxidants: Nuts and bananas both contain antioxidants that protect cells from damage and support overall immune health.
• Source of Vitamins: Bananas are a rich source of essential vitamins, including Vitamin C and Vitamin B6, which are vital for maintaining skin health and promoting energy production.
• Protein Boost: Nuts in the bread provide plant-based protein that helps in muscle repair and growth.

Health Benefits:

• Boosts Heart Health: The combination of potassium, fiber, and healthy fats helps keep your heart in top condition, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Supports Weight Management: With its high fibre content, banana nut bread helps keep you full longer, reducing overeating and supporting weight management.
• Improves Digestion: The fiber from bananas and whole wheat flour promotes smooth digestion and reduces bloating.
• Enhances Brain Function: Walnuts, a common addition to banana nut bread, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support cognitive health and improve brain function.
• Maintains Healthy Skin: Vitamin C from bananas and nuts helps maintain skin elasticity and supports collagen production, promoting youthful skin.
• Provides Long-Lasting Energy: The carbohydrates and healthy fats offer slow-releasing energy, making it an excellent snack or breakfast to keep you energized throughout the day.

Banana Nut Bread Recipe Variation

Try adding chocolate chips or dried fruit for a fun twist. You can also experiment with different nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts. For a healthier option, substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup. These variations add unique flavours while keeping the bread moist and delicious.

How to Serve Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Banana nut bread can be served as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a dessert. Serve it warm with butter for a rich and satisfying experience. You can also enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for any time of day.

For an extra indulgence, toast the slices lightly and spread a bit of cream cheese or peanut butter on top. This adds creaminess and a savoury contrast to the sweet banana flavour.

Storage Options

To keep your banana nut bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For more extended storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminium foil, then place it in the freezer. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and enjoy!

FAQs About Banana Nut Bread Recipe

How can I make my banana nut bread extra moist?

To make your banana nut bread moist, add an extra-ripe banana and a bit of yoghurt or sour cream. These ingredients will provide the needed moisture without affecting the taste.

Can I substitute the nuts in the banana nut bread with something else?

Yes, you can substitute any nuts you like, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even distribution.

Can I make banana nut bread without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with mashed bananas or a flaxseed mixture. These alternatives provide the binding needed for a perfect loaf.

How long should I bake banana nut bread?

Bake banana nut bread at 350°F for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Ensure the bread is fully cooked before removing it from the oven.